If you’re interested in adopting a pet, you may be wondering how you can lessen your environmental impact during the pet ownership process. Below, you’ll find where to adopt, eco-friendly products, composting and removing pet waste, food, and having everyone in the family participate.
Adopt Don’t Shop
Instead of shopping at pet stores for a dog or cat, adopt one from a local non-profit organization near your home. The ASPCA is one great organization that has animal shelters in most states, and they were the first humane society in North America. You can shop online and then visit your local shelter to adopt a pet, and most adoption centers will have the currently available pets posted online.
Most organizations will try to match the pet with the right owner by filling out assessment forms, so be prepared to fill them out. An online pet adoption organization called Adopt A Pet has an online database where you can find pets in your local area. You enter your zip code and look for a pet nearby.
Another searchable online database for pets is Pet.com. Sometimes pet stores like Petco and PetSmart have special adoption events where consumers can adopt cats and dogs for free. Check with your local stores to see if any such events are planned near your home.
Another place to check is your local town or city pound. They sometimes offer pets for adoption. Over 85 million households own a pet, according to The American Pet Products Association. Why not use these resources to be one of them.?
Use Eco-Friendly Products
Try to feed your pet eco-friendly pet food made by responsible companies and that use packaging that is recyclable with no plastic. Do not overfeed your pets and look for a brand that uses organic ingredients and locally sourced products. Places to find these pet foods are your local health food store, pet stores, and on websites like Chewy.com and Amazon. Some companies will deliver the food directly to your home, like The Farmers Dog. When you buy leashes and toys, look for ones made of recycled natural materials. Be sure they are safe and easy to play with.
Compost Pet Waste
Disposing of pet waste should be done in an eco-friendly way. Dog and cat poop can be added to your compost pile if it is done safely. The compost pile needs to be heated thoroughly for several days at 145 degrees to kill bacteria. Many stores sell electric composters that heat the compost using the hot composting method, the safest way to use pet feces. If you have a compost pile, this would be the safest way to do this. The compost should not be added to vegetable gardens or areas where children play. It can be used in landscaping and for lawns and around trees. You should wear gloves when handling the compost.
Over 39,900,000 families in the United States own cats. Disposing of animal waste is a major concern for pet owners. You should put it in a plastic bag or one that is biodegradable and squeeze out the air. Put it in another bag before you put it in the garbage. Always double bag pet waste before you dispose of it.
Use Products That are Safe and Sustainable
Try the new eco-friendly cat litter that doesn’t use clay and silica gel that creates dust. Your pet can breathe it in and it causes respiratory problems. There are many brands that use natural materials better for your pet’s health. They use dried wood shavings of cedar or spruce, paper, and grass seeds. These products are safer for your pets and family. Try to use shampoos and grooming products without harmful chemicals added. Overall, this is better for the home environment.
Make Sure Everyone in Your Household is Doing the Same
When you decide to feed your pet healthy foods, make sure all the members of your family agree. When you remove pet waste, have one way you will do it and have everyone follow the rules. Pets need exercise and care. All members should participate in caring for a pet. Many couples live together unmarried. In fact, 5.5 million are in the United States. Whether married or not, pets are good companions for couples, singles, and families.
Adopt a pet as there are many that need a home, and it’s possible to be responsible for the environment and your pet. Be sure you have the financial resources and time to care for them properly.
